Bell has reported a significant increase in thefts of copper wire within its telecommunications network in 2026, leading to potential disruptions in phone and internet services. The company documented a total of 993 incidents of copper theft and vandalism between January and June, marking a 78% surge compared to the same period last year.
Most of these thefts occurred in Ontario and New Brunswick, with these provinces collectively contributing to about 85% of the overall rise in theft cases. In Ontario, areas like Hamilton, Niagara, and Milton experienced a high number of thefts, while in New Brunswick, the problem escalated rapidly with a 235% increase in thefts from the previous year.
David Joice, Bell’s director of national network operations, explained that thieves typically target copper wire from telecommunication poles, often operating during nighttime or in rural regions with less surveillance. The appeal of copper lies in its resale value, which has increased due to the rising global demand fueled by developments such as the expansion of data centers and electric vehicle manufacturing.
Gary Dvorkin, the owner of Peel Scrap Metal in Oakville, Ontario, highlighted that the mining of new copper has not kept pace with demand, leading to sustained high prices for the metal. His business now handles eight to ten truckloads of copper monthly, reflecting a steady growth in processing volumes over the years.
Despite the financial incentives, Bell emphasized that the value of the stolen metal is insignificant compared to the disruptions caused. Copper thefts can result in service outages affecting phone, internet, and TV services, potentially jeopardizing access to emergency services and posing public safety risks.
To counter these thefts, Bell has implemented various preventive measures, such as enhanced alarm systems linked to law enforcement, increased ground surveillance, and legal actions against suspected thieves. Additionally, the company is transitioning from copper wire to fiber-optic cables to deter further theft incidents.
Notably, there has been a 32% increase in arrests related to copper theft in the first half of the year, reflecting ongoing enforcement efforts. The federal government’s recent justice reform bill empowers judges to consider aggravating factors like infrastructure damage when sentencing individuals involved in crimes like copper theft.