Protecting connectivity and combatting copper theft in California
Protecting connectivity and preventing copper theft in California
In 2025, over 60% of all AT&T cable theft in California occurred in Los Angeles County
LA County ranks highest in copper theft incidents in the country
Incidents of copper theft in LA County increased ~353% from 2024 to 2025
Average number of days customers’ service is impacted in LA County due to copper theft
Work solely on restoring services due to copper theft in LA County on average daily
How we’re keeping California connected
Copper theft is disrupting communications across our communities. That’s why we’re working with local leaders and law enforcement to respond quickly, prevent future incidents, and strengthen network infrastructure.
It takes all of us to prevent copper theft. Copper theft is a serious and ongoing challenge affecting neighborhoods across California. Addressing the issue requires coordination, accountability, and a shared commitment across sectors. Learn how AT&T is tackling the problem and what elected officials, public safety, and residents can do to help.
Modernization is critical to combatting the issue. We are also investing in modernizing our network in California, and transitioning from aging copper lines to more resilient technologies to better meet Californians’ connectivity needs today. And we continue to work with affected residents to upgrade from outdated copper-based services to more reliable services like AT&T Phone – Advanced, fiber, and wireless.
Tracking local outages
Customers can check for all service outages in their area and troubleshoot service issues at our mobile friendly website
What modernization means for communities
Much of California’s copper communications network was built decades ago, at a time when technology and customer needs looked very different than they do today.
Modernizing communications infrastructure is about improving reliability, security, and performance for communities across Los Angeles County.
- Less vulnerable to theft – Modern networks contain different components than copper infrastructure, eliminating risk of theft or vandalism.
- More reliable – Modern infrastructure is designed to withstand environmental stress and support consistent, reliable performance.
- Faster restoration – Modern services allow for more efficient and precise monitoring and repair when incidents occur.
- Greater capacity – Modern networks are better equipped to handle today’s digital demands, including remote work, telehealth, education, and small business operations.
Network modernization will help reduce service disruptions, strengthen reliability, and protect communities from repeated copper-related outages. By upgrading from aging infrastructure to more resilient technologies, Los Angeles County can build a stronger, more secure communications future.
Frequently asked questions
Why is copper theft causing outages?
Copper theft physically damages communications infrastructure and service can’t be restored until technicians safely repair or replace the damaged cable. These outages are almost always the result of criminal activity.
What is being done to stop it?
How quickly can service be restored?
Who is impacted when copper cables are stolen?
When communications infrastructure is damaged, entire neighborhoods can lose access to phone and internet services. This can affect seniors, adults working and students learning from home, small businesses, healthcare providers, and emergency communications, including 911.
Is copper theft only affecting AT&T customers?
What is AT&T doing to prevent future theft?
AT&T is investing in enhanced monitoring, reinforcing vulnerable infrastructure, working with law enforcement, and accelerating efforts to modernize our network to technologies that are less susceptible to theft.
What support is available for customers experiencing extended outages?
How are elected officials involved in addressing this issue?
What is the long-term solution to copper-related outages?
While theft prevention efforts are ongoing, transitioning from aging copper infrastructure to modern networks is the most effective long-term solution for improving reliability and reducing vulnerability to theft.
Our commitment
