Telecom Industry Summit Puts Focus on Harms from Copper Theft

WASHINGTON, Nov. 19, 2024 – The rising market value of copper has driven a surge in theft and vandalism targeting America’s communications networks, causing widespread service disruptions, costing millions in damages, and threatening public safety. 

With nearly 4,000 reported incidents in a three-month period this year, industry leaders and law enforcement convened in Irving, Texas on Tuesday to address what they call a growing national crisis. The event was organized by industry groups NCTA, NTCA, CTIA, and USTelecom.

“This rise in criminal acts creates immense financial strain, costing millions in repair and restoration costs, and causing cascading impacts on critical sectors” including emergency response, health care, energy grids, and public transportation, Robert Cantu, vice president of cybersecurity and broadband technology for NCTA – The Internet & Television Association, said at the event.