Growing threat

The surge in copper cable theft has become a serious problem for telecom operators and their customers. Driven by global metal prices, these crimes can leave entire communities without connection. Beyond the financial cost for operators, the social impact is significant, with some areas cut off for several days. 

A problem driven by global demand

Copper has become the “red gold” of the 21st century. Its value continues to rise on international markets, fueled by its use in a wide range of industrial sectors. Telecom networks, with thousands of kilometers of buried or overhead cables, are prime targets for increasingly organized criminal networks. This isn’t just a French problem: it’s happening worldwide, reflecting global tensions in the raw materials market. 

Beyond the material loss

Cyril Luneau : « When these attacks impact our telecoms services, customers lose their telephone and internet access, which is a major problem in today’s world where connectivity is now essential. These service interruptions also hit the community hard through emergency services (hospitals, firefighters, police), business impacts for companies, and local authorities in terms of service unavailability for citizens. These offences are therefore a broadscale social problem and can damage Orange’s reputation. What’s more, the thefts can take place repeatedly in a geographical area and continue to badly affect the lives of businesses and individuals over many months.» 

Strengthening security with local authorities  

In response, Orange deploys a continuous security strategy, combining physical measures with close cooperation with law enforcement and local authorities. The goal is twofold: deter thieves and reduce response times when incidents occur. 

Cyril Luneau : « We’ve already signed multi-operator agreements to prevent criminal attacks on telecom networks with 79 prefectures. The aim is to create a framework and ensure all stakeholders are committed to addressing this social issue. Each theft is systematically reported, and in-depth work is carried out with the police to raise awareness of the importance of these cable thefts. Several convictions have been made in recent months. What’s more, we’re actively working with the French Telecoms Federation to change the law and obtain tougher penalties for network attacks that put lives at risk.» 

Beyond network protection, Orange prioritizes helping affected customers. Temporary solutions keep people connected during repairs, and fiber migration is encouraged in eligible areas. 

Cyril Luneau : « As an infrastructure operator, our technicians are working to repair any network damage caused by these thefts as quickly as possible. They may have to replace several kilometers of cable and individually reconnect each customer to their operator to restore their service. As a commercial operator, we’re also helping our customers as soon as services are interrupted. The 3900 and 3901 hotlines for professionals offer continuity solutions such as 200 GB mobile subscriptions (for 5 people in the premises), a 4G key, or the loan of an airbox in store. We recommend customers upgrade to fiber if they live in fiber-optic areas and suffer from high recurrences of copper theft. We’re also launching campaigns to proactively contact our customers when a theft occurs. The Orange Local Authorities Relations Directors remain in close touch with local authorities and administrations when it comes to copper cable theft. »