DALLAS — Copper cable thefts in the Dallas-Fort Worth area have become so common that internet and phone provider AT&T is offering up to $10,000 to anyone who can provide information that leads to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.

What You Need To Know

  • A spike in reports of copper cable thefts have come out of the Dallas-Fort Worth area in recent months

  • To mitigate this, AT&T is offering up to $10,000 to anyone who can provide information that leads to the arrest and conviction of those responsible

  • Thieves often damage critical infrastructure when stealing copper wiring, leaving residents without essential services or a way to contact loved ones in an emergency, Dallas Mayor Pro Tem Tennell Atkins said in a news release

  • AT&T also advises the public to report people in unmarked, non-AT&T vehicles removing cable

Back in June, NBC DFW reported AT&T customers in South Dallas experiencing phone and internet outages caused by thieves stealing copper wire. In August, multiple thefts in Garland were caught on camera. Garland Police Lt. Pedro Barineau told WFAA that there’s been a spike in the thefts in recent months.

Copper cable thefts are driven in part by the metal's high resale value. According to Smart Energy International, the estimated loss due to cable theft in the U.S. is between $1.5 billion and $2 billion per year.

Thieves often damage critical infrastructure when stealing copper wiring, leaving residents without essential services or a way to contact loved ones in an emergency, Dallas Mayor Pro Tem Tennell Atkins said in a news release.

“It’s a serious issue that impacts everyone. That’s why we need to spread awareness and work together to stop those responsible,” Atkins said.

To mitigate these thefts, AT&T is collaborating with local officials in the Dallas-Fort Worth area to investigate the incidents. AT&T also advises the public to report people in unmarked, non-AT&T vehicles cutting and removing cable.

Anyone with information on the recent string of thefts is encouraged to contact law enforcement and AT&T Global Security & Investigations at 800-807-4205. Callers can remain anonymous. The reward is valid for leads received by Nov. 1, 2025.

“Theft and vandalism of critical communications infrastructure are serious matters that affect public safety and the community at large,” said Michael Peterson, assistant vice president of external affairs at AT&T Texas. “Maintaining high-quality service is a top priority, and we’re working closely with law enforcement to investigate any incidents.”