Bell has reported a significant increase in incidents of copper wire thefts within its telecommunications infrastructure in 2026, leading to potential disruptions in phone and internet services. The company has documented 993 cases of copper theft and vandalism between January and June, marking a 78% surge compared to the same period last year.
Most of the theft occurrences occurred in Ontario and New Brunswick, accounting for approximately 85% of the rise in theft activities. In Ontario, Hamilton, Niagara, and Milton experienced the highest number of thefts, while in New Brunswick, the issue escalated rapidly, with a 235% increase in thefts from 2025.
Thieves typically target copper wire from telephone and telecommunication poles, often operating during nighttime or in rural areas with fewer observers. The demand for copper has increased due to global electrification efforts, such as the expansion of data centers and the production of electric vehicles, making the recycled metal more valuable.
Gary Dvorkin, the owner of Peel Scrap Metal in Oakville, Ontario, noted that the mining of new copper has failed to match the rising demand, resulting in elevated metal prices. He indicated a steady increase in the amount of copper his business processes monthly, emphasizing the financial incentive for individuals bringing in copper for recycling.
Despite the financial gains, Bell emphasized that the value of the stolen metal is minimal compared to the disruptions caused. Copper thefts can lead to service outages affecting phone, internet, and TV services, potentially jeopardizing access to emergency services and public safety.
Bell highlighted the collaborative effort required to combat copper theft, involving telecommunication providers, governments, law enforcement, recyclers, and communities. The company has implemented various measures to deter theft, including enhanced surveillance, legal actions against offenders, and transitioning from copper wire to fiber-optic cables.
With the rise in arrests by 32% in the first half of the year, Bell underscored the ongoing enforcement actions taken. The federal government’s recent justice reform bill allows judges to consider aggravating factors, such as infrastructure damage, when sentencing individuals involved in criminal activities like copper theft.