Theft of network equipment is an issue that probably hasn't received the attention it deserves. Many an equipment vendor will tell stories about deploying gear, such as towers, cabinets and copper, for carriers emerging markets overseas only to see it stolen by thieves. It's always seemed like one of the costs of doing business in a delicate, developing economy where opportunistic thieves and black-marketeers, and maybe even people just trying to get by, recognize the value of such gear.
Copper has been especially prized as the worldwide market for copper boomed over the last several years. But, theft isn't only a problem elsewhere in the world; it's happening in the United States, too. It might be time for telcos to reassess their practices for making sure their gear is secure.
For more about copper theft:
- check out The Atlanta Constitution Journal
