Bell has reported a significant increase in thefts of copper wire across its telecommunications network in 2026, leading to potential disruptions in phone and internet services. The company documented 993 incidents of copper theft and vandalism between January and June, marking a 78% rise compared to the same period last year.
Most of the thefts occurred in Ontario and New Brunswick, with these provinces accounting for approximately 85% of the overall increase. In Ontario, areas such as Hamilton, Niagara, and Milton experienced the highest number of thefts, while New Brunswick saw a staggering 235% surge in thefts from the previous year.
David Joice, Bell’s director of national network operations, explained that thieves typically target copper wire from telephone and telecommunication poles, particularly during nighttime or in rural regions with fewer observers. The demand for copper has risen due to increased electrification globally, driven by developments such as data center expansions and the production of electric vehicles.
Gary Dvorkin, the owner of Peel Scrap Metal in Oakville, Ontario, highlighted the insufficient mining of new copper to meet demand, resulting in elevated metal prices. Despite the financial incentive for thieves due to high copper prices, Bell emphasized that the value of the stolen metal pales in comparison to the disruptions caused by these thefts.
The theft of copper wires can lead to service outages affecting phone, internet, and television services, with potential risks to public safety by impeding access to emergency services. Bell’s executive vice-president and chief technology officer, Mark McDonald, stressed the need for collaborative efforts among telecommunications providers, governments, law enforcement, recyclers, and communities to combat copper theft effectively.
In response to the surge in thefts, Bell has implemented various measures to deter theft, including enhanced alarm systems linked to law enforcement, increased on-the-ground surveillance, and legal actions against suspected thieves. The company is also transitioning from copper wire to fiber-optic cables to mitigate the impact of thefts.
Additionally, the number of arrests related to copper theft has increased by 32% in the first half of the year, reflecting ongoing enforcement initiatives. The federal government’s recent justice reform bill grants judges the authority to consider aggravating factors, such as infrastructure damage, when sentencing individuals involved in crimes like copper theft.