Bell has reported a significant increase in thefts of copper wire from its telecommunications infrastructure in 2026, leading to potential disruptions in phone and internet services. The company disclosed that there were 993 documented cases of copper theft and vandalism between January and June, marking a 78 percent rise compared to the same period last year.
The majority of these incidents occurred in Ontario and New Brunswick, accounting for approximately 85 percent of the overall increase. Specifically, Hamilton, Niagara, and Milton were the most affected areas in Ontario, while New Brunswick experienced a notable surge of 235 percent in thefts compared to the previous year.
David Joice, Bell’s director of national network operations, highlighted that thieves typically target copper wire from telephone and telecommunication poles, often operating during nighttime or in rural regions with limited surveillance. The allure of copper lies in its lucrative resale value, driven by the growing demand for the metal due to increasing electrification worldwide, such as the expansion of data centers and the production of electric vehicles.
Gary Dvorkin, the owner of Peel Scrap Metal in Oakville, Ontario, noted that the mining of new copper has not kept pace with demand, resulting in elevated metal prices. His business processes a substantial amount of copper monthly, with the influx rising steadily over time as prices surge. Despite the financial incentives, Bell emphasized that the monetary gain from copper theft pales in comparison to the operational disruptions and public safety risks it poses.
To combat these thefts, Bell has implemented various preventive measures, including enhanced alarm systems linked to law enforcement, intensified ground surveillance, and legal actions against suspected thieves. Moreover, the company is transitioning from copper wire to fiber-optic cables to deter thefts. The number of arrests related to copper theft has increased by 32 percent in the first half of the year, reflecting ongoing enforcement efforts.
In response to the escalating issue, the federal government has introduced justice reform legislation granting judges the authority to consider aggravating factors like infrastructure damage when sentencing offenders, encompassing crimes like copper theft. Bell emphasized the need for collaborative efforts among telecommunication providers, authorities, recyclers, and communities to combat copper theft effectively and safeguard critical networks.