Bell Telecommunications has reported a significant increase in incidents of copper wire thefts within its infrastructure in 2026, leading to potential disruptions in phone and internet services. The company documented a total of 993 cases of copper theft and vandalism between January and June, marking a 78 percent surge compared to the same period last year. Most of these thefts occurred in Ontario and New Brunswick, accounting for approximately 85% of the overall increase.

Notably, regions like Hamilton, Niagara, and Milton in Ontario experienced the highest number of thefts, while New Brunswick witnessed a notable spike with a 235 percent increase in thefts from the previous year. According to David Joice, Bell’s director of national network operations, thieves typically target copper wire from telecommunication poles, often operating under the cover of night or in rural areas where surveillance is minimal.

The escalating demand for copper, driven by the expansion of data centers and electric vehicle production, has made the metal more valuable. Gary Dvorkin, the owner of Peel Scrap Metal, emphasized the imbalance between copper demand and production, resulting in elevated prices for the commodity. Despite the lucrative nature of copper theft, Bell stressed that the economic gain is insignificant compared to the detrimental impact it causes.

Copper wire thefts not only disrupt phone, internet, and TV services but also pose a risk to public safety by potentially cutting off access to emergency services. Bell’s executive vice-president and chief technology officer, Mark McDonald, emphasized the need for collaborative efforts among telecommunication providers, government authorities, law enforcement agencies, recyclers, and communities to combat these criminal activities.

To combat the rising theft incidents, Bell has implemented various preventative measures, such as enhanced alarm systems, increased surveillance, and legal actions against suspected thieves. Additionally, the company is transitioning from copper wire to more secure fiber-optic cables. The company’s proactive measures have led to a 32 percent increase in arrests in the first half of the year, reflecting ongoing enforcement initiatives.

In a bid to deter such criminal activities, the federal government has introduced a justice reform bill that allows judges to consider aggravating factors, including infrastructure damage, when sentencing individuals involved in crimes like copper theft. This legislative approach aims to impose harsher penalties on offenders to safeguard critical infrastructure and public services.