Bell has reported a significant increase in incidents of copper wire thefts in 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.
The majority of these thefts occurred in Ontario and New Brunswick, with these provinces contributing to about 85% of the overall rise in thefts. In Ontario, areas such as Hamilton, Niagara, and Milton experienced the highest number of thefts, while in New Brunswick, the issue escalated rapidly, with a 235% increase in thefts since 2025.
According to David Joice, Bell’s director of national network operations, thieves typically target copper wire from telephone and telecommunication poles, often operating at night or in rural locations with limited surveillance. The demand for copper has intensified due to the increasing electrification of the world, driven by projects such as data center expansions and electric vehicle manufacturing.
Gary Dvorkin, the owner of Peel Scrap Metal in Oakville, Ontario, highlighted the imbalance between the demand for copper and its mining, resulting in elevated metal prices. His business now handles eight to ten truckloads of copper monthly, a volume that has been steadily rising over time.
While the value of copper remains high in the market, Bell emphasizes that the damage caused by thefts far outweighs the financial gain. These thefts can lead to service outages affecting phone, internet, and TV services, potentially jeopardizing access to emergency services and public safety.
Bell stresses the need for collaborative efforts among telecommunication providers, government authorities, law enforcement agencies, recyclers, and communities to combat copper theft effectively. The company has implemented preventive measures, such as enhanced alarm systems linked to law enforcement, increased ground surveillance, and legal actions against suspected thieves. Additionally, Bell is transitioning from copper wire to fiber-optic cables to deter future thefts.
In response to the escalating issue, arrests related to copper theft have increased by 32% in the first half of the year, indicating ongoing enforcement actions. The federal government has introduced justice reforms, granting judges the authority to consider aggravating factors like infrastructure damage when sentencing individuals involved in crimes like copper theft.