Communications networks are the foundation of safety, connection, and national security. These infrastructure attacks should be treated as domestic terrorism when the facts warrant.

Local and state law enforcement need additional help to prevent and respond to vandalism. Dedicated resources for investigation, tracking, and prosecution can help curb these crimes and mitigate disruptions.

Attacks on public and private networks must be treated equally and carry appropriate federal penalties. Currently, federal law only criminalizes attacks on government-owned communications systems. Passage of the Stopping the Theft and Destruction of Broadband Act of 2025 (H.R. 2784) would be significant step forward in enhancing penalties on privately owned networks across the country.

While some states have enacted stricter protections or adopted enhanced penalties, many lack specific legislation to deter and significantly penalize damage to communications infrastructure.

Enforcing ethical practices within the scrap metal industry is crucial to reducing the demand for stolen copper.

To improve threat detection, response times and prevention of future attacks, there should be expanded intelligence and information sharing across federal, state, and local entities as well as with communications companies.

Internet providers are always investing in enhanced physical security, monitoring systems, and rapid-response teams to detect and address infrastructure attacks.