Bell has reported a significant increase in copper wire theft incidents affecting its telecommunications infrastructure in 2026, leading to potential disruptions in phone and internet services. The company revealed a total of 993 cases of copper theft and vandalism between January and June, marking a substantial 78% rise compared to the corresponding period last year.
The majority of these thefts occurred in Ontario and New Brunswick, accounting for approximately 85% of the overall increase. Specifically, Hamilton, Niagara, and Milton witnessed the highest number of thefts in Ontario, while New Brunswick experienced a notably steep surge of 235% in theft incidents from the previous year.
According to David Joice, Bell’s director of national network operations, thieves typically target copper wire on telephone and telecommunication poles during nighttime or in rural areas with limited surveillance. The appeal of copper lies in its lucrative value as a recycled metal, especially with the growing demand driven by the increasing electrification of the world, including the development of data centers and electric vehicles.
Gary Dvorkin, the owner of Peel Scrap Metal in Oakville, Ontario, emphasized the imbalance between the rising demand for copper and insufficient mining output, which has contributed to elevated metal prices. Dvorkin noted a steady increase in the volume of copper processed by his business, highlighting the financial incentive for individuals to sell copper due to its high market value.
Despite the monetary allure, Bell emphasized that the monetary gain from copper theft pales in comparison to the detrimental impact it poses. The thefts can result in service outages, disrupting essential services such as phone, internet, and TV, potentially jeopardizing public safety by impeding access to emergency services.
Bell stressed the need for collaborative efforts among telecommunications providers, governments, law enforcement agencies, recyclers, and communities to combat copper theft effectively and safeguard critical networks. The company has implemented various preventive measures, including enhanced alarm systems linked to law enforcement, heightened ground surveillance, legal actions against suspected thieves, and a gradual transition from copper wire to fiber-optic cables.
Acknowledging the escalating theft incidents, Bell reported a 32% increase in arrests during 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, in sentencing individuals involved in crimes like copper theft.
In response to the escalating thefts, Bell has taken steps to combat the issue, including enhancing alarm systems connected to law enforcement, increasing ground surveillance, pursuing legal action against alleged thieves, and transitioning from copper wire to fiber-optic cables. Arrests have increased by 32% in the first half of the year, reflecting ongoing enforcement efforts. The federal government’s justice reform bill, which came into effect earlier this month, allows judges to consider aggravating factors, such as infrastructure damage, when sentencing individuals involved in copper theft.