Copper theft disrupts telecommunications services
Bell has reported a significant increase in copper wire thefts targeting its telecommunications infrastructure in 2026, warning that the incidents can disrupt phone, internet and television services across Canada.
The telecommunications company recorded 993 cases of copper theft and vandalism between January and June, representing a 78% increase compared with the same period in 2025.
Ontario and New Brunswick see biggest increases
According to Bell, most of the reported incidents occurred in Ontario and New Brunswick, which together accounted for approximately 85% of the increase in theft cases.
In Ontario, Hamilton, Niagara and Milton recorded the highest number of thefts. However, New Brunswick experienced the fastest growth, with incidents rising 235% compared with the previous year.
Why copper theft is increasing
Bell says thieves typically remove copper wiring from telephone and telecommunications poles, often operating at night or in rural areas where they are less likely to be noticed.
The metal is targeted because recycled copper can generate significant revenue. Demand for copper has increased globally due to the expansion of electrification, including the construction of data centres and the production of electric vehicles.
Rising copper demand keeps prices elevated
Gary Dvorkin, owner and founder of Peel Scrap Metal in Oakville, Ontario, says copper prices have remained high because new mining production has not kept pace with growing demand.
His business currently processes between eight and 10 truckloads of copper each month, a volume that has steadily increased over the years.
“When prices are up, you get a little more copper coming in,” Dvorkin said, noting that small quantities of copper can represent significant value for individuals selling the metal.
The impact on Canadian communities
Bell says the financial value of stolen copper is small compared with the damage caused by service disruptions.
Copper wire theft can interrupt phone, internet and television services, while potentially affecting access to emergency communications and creating public safety concerns.
“No single organization can stop copper theft alone,” said Mark McDonald, Bell’s executive vice-president and chief technology officer.
Bell says preventing these crimes requires cooperation between telecommunications companies, governments, law enforcement agencies, recycling businesses and local communities.
Recyclers face challenges identifying stolen copper
Scrap metal operators say they try to prevent stolen materials from entering their facilities, but identifying illegally obtained copper can be difficult.
Dvorkin said he reports suspicious materials to police but explained that thieves can make identification harder by cutting wires into smaller pieces or altering the appearance of the metal.
Bell expands security measures
Bell has introduced several measures to reduce copper theft, including alarm systems connected to law enforcement, increased field surveillance and legal action against alleged offenders.
The company is also transitioning from traditional copper networks to fibre-optic technology, which reduces reliance on copper infrastructure.
Bell reported that arrests related to copper theft increased by 32% during the first half of the year, which the company attributes to continued enforcement efforts.
Government introduces tougher sentencing measures
The federal government has also introduced changes that allow judges to consider infrastructure damage as an aggravating factor when determining sentences.
The measure, included in a justice reform bill that recently came into effect, applies to crimes such as copper theft that damage critical infrastructure.