Bell has reported a significant increase in incidents of copper wire thefts affecting its telecommunications systems in 2026, leading to potential disruptions in phone and internet services. The company has documented 993 cases of theft and vandalism from January to June, marking a 78 percent rise 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 percent of the overall surge.
Specifically, Hamilton, Niagara, and Milton recorded the highest number of thefts in Ontario, while New Brunswick experienced the most rapid growth in theft incidents, witnessing a 235 percent increase from the previous year. Thieves typically target copper wire from telephone and telecommunication poles during night hours or in rural areas with minimal surveillance.
The demand for copper remains high due to its increasing value in various industries such as data centers and electric vehicle manufacturing, resulting in lucrative returns for thieves. Gary Dvorkin, the owner of Peel Scrap Metal in Oakville, Ontario, highlighted the imbalance between copper demand and supply, leading to elevated prices for the metal.
Despite the financial gains, Bell emphasized that the value of stolen copper is insignificant compared to the disruptions it causes. The thefts can result in service outages affecting phone, internet, and TV services, potentially jeopardizing access to emergency services and public safety. To combat this issue, Bell has implemented measures such as enhanced surveillance, alarm systems linked to law enforcement, and legal actions against offenders. Additionally, the company is transitioning from copper wire to fiber-optic cables to deter thefts in the future.
Efforts to curb copper theft have resulted in a 32 percent increase in arrests during the first half of the year, reflecting ongoing enforcement initiatives. The federal government has also taken steps to address this issue by empowering judges to consider aggravating factors like infrastructure damage when sentencing offenders, including those involved in copper theft.