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 documented a total of 993 cases of copper theft and vandalism between January and June, marking a 78% surge compared to the previous year’s figures for the same period.
The majority of these thefts occurred in Ontario and New Brunswick, with these two provinces collectively contributing to around 85% of the overall rise in theft incidents. In Ontario, areas like Hamilton, Niagara, and Milton experienced the highest number of thefts, while in New Brunswick, the problem escalated rapidly, showing a 235% increase in thefts from the previous year.
Copper thieves typically target telephone and telecommunication poles during nighttime or in rural regions with limited surveillance, as stated by Bell’s director of national network operations, David Joice. The demand for copper has been driven by its increasing value due to the global trend towards electrification, such as the expansion of data centers and the production of electric vehicles.
According to Gary Dvorkin, the owner of Peel Scrap Metal in Oakville, Ontario, the supply of new copper has not kept pace with the growing demand, leading to elevated prices for the metal. Dvorkin noted a steady rise in the amount of copper his business processes monthly, attributing this increase to higher prices attracting more copper sellers.
Although the resale value of copper is lucrative, Bell emphasized that the harm caused by theft incidents far outweighs the material’s worth. Copper thefts can result in service outages disrupting phone, internet, and TV services, potentially endangering public safety by impeding access to emergency services.
To combat these thefts, Bell has implemented measures such as enhanced alarm systems linked to law enforcement, increased ground surveillance, and legal actions against suspected thieves. The company is also transitioning from copper wires to fiber-optic cables to deter future thefts.
Notably, arrests related to copper theft have risen by 32% in the first half of the year, indicating intensified enforcement efforts. The federal government’s recent justice reform bill allows judges to consider aggravating factors like infrastructure damage when sentencing individuals involved in crimes like copper theft.