Bell has reported a sharp increase in incidents of copper wire thefts affecting its telecommunications infrastructure in 2026, leading to potential disruptions in phone and internet services. The company documented a total of 993 cases of theft and vandalism between January and June, marking a substantial 78% rise compared to the same period in the previous year.
The majority of these thefts occurred in Ontario and New Brunswick, with these provinces collectively contributing to about 85% of the overall increase in theft incidents. Specifically, areas such as Hamilton, Niagara, and Milton in Ontario experienced the highest rates of theft, while New Brunswick witnessed a significant 235% surge in thefts from the preceding year.
David Joice, Bell’s director of national network operations, highlighted that thieves typically target copper wire from telecommunication poles during off-hours or in rural regions with limited surveillance. The appeal of copper lies in its market value, which has been driven up by the growing demand for electrification worldwide, including the development of data centers and electric vehicles.
According to Gary Dvorkin, the owner of Peel Scrap Metal in Oakville, Ontario, the supply of new copper has failed to keep pace with demand, resulting in elevated prices for the metal. Dvorkin noted a steady increase in the volume of copper processed by his business monthly, attributing this growth to the lucrative returns offered by the market.
Despite the financial incentives, Bell emphasized that the monetary value of the stolen metal pales in comparison to the detrimental impact it causes. Copper thefts can lead to service outages, disrupting essential communication services such as phone, internet, and TV, potentially jeopardizing public safety by impeding access to emergency services.
Bell’s executive vice-president and chief technology officer, Mark McDonald, stressed the need for collaborative efforts among telecommunication providers, authorities, recyclers, and communities to combat copper theft effectively. Bell has implemented various measures to deter theft, including enhanced security systems, increased surveillance, and legal actions against offenders. Additionally, the company is transitioning from copper wire to fiber-optic cables to mitigate theft risks.
Furthermore, Bell reported a 32% increase in arrests related to copper theft in the first half of the year, indicating ongoing enforcement initiatives. Recent justice reforms empower judges to consider aggravating factors like infrastructure damage when sentencing offenders, including those involved in copper theft.