Bell has reported a significant increase in thefts of copper wire from its telecommunications infrastructure in 2026, leading to disruptions in phone and internet services. The company documented 993 incidents of copper theft and vandalism from January to June, marking a 78% rise compared to the previous year. The majority of these thefts occurred in Ontario and New Brunswick, with these provinces accounting for around 85% of the total increase.

In Ontario, areas like Hamilton, Niagara, and Milton experienced the highest number of thefts, while New Brunswick saw a staggering 235% surge in thefts from the previous year. Thieves typically target copper wire on telephone and telecommunication poles during nighttime or in rural locations with limited visibility.

The demand for copper has risen due to the increased electrification of the world, driven by the expansion of data centers and the production of electric vehicles. This surge in demand has led to elevated prices for copper as the supply struggles to keep pace. Despite the financial incentive for thieves, Bell emphasizes that the value of the stolen metal is insignificant compared to the disruptions caused.

Bell has implemented various measures to combat thefts, including enhanced alarm systems, increased surveillance, and legal actions against perpetrators. The company is also transitioning from copper wire to fiber-optic cables to deter future thefts. Additionally, arrests related to copper theft have increased by 32% in the first half of the year, reflecting ongoing enforcement efforts.

To address the issue, a collective effort involving telecommunication providers, governments, law enforcement, recyclers, and communities is crucial. Bell stresses the importance of holding criminals accountable to safeguard the networks vital for Canadians’ communication needs. The federal government has also introduced measures to impose harsher penalties on offenders, considering factors like infrastructure damage in sentencing.