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The theft of cables and wires has become a real headache for energy companies, telecoms operators and railways. Criminals are stealing copper and aluminium cable, causing millions in losses and leaving entire areas without power.
But technology is constantly evolving. Modern, innovative solutions make it possible not only to identify criminals after the event, but also to actively prevent thefts.
We remind you that you can purchase home and commercial charging stations in our online storeand also use the public charging stations ECOFACTORcharging points located throughout Ukraine. For convenient access to charging infrastructure, we recommend using our mobile applicationwhich is available on iOS and Android.
The scale of the problem of cable theft
According to the Kyiv police, some criminals are responsible for dozens of thefts. One man was sentenced to three and a half years’ imprisonment for committing sixteen cable thefts in the capital. He cut electrical cable from the basements of buildings, causing significant losses to utility companies.
As the head of one of the regional state administrations noted in 2019 during a meeting on combating the theft of cable and wire products, such crimes may be covered up by certain law enforcement or regulatory bodies. This makes the problem even more acute.
Modern anti-theft technologies
AI-based video surveillance systems
Artificial intelligence is transforming the approach to securing cable infrastructure. Modern cameras do not simply record video — they analyse it in real time.
Such systems detect suspicious activity: people with tools near power lines, vehicles near transformer substations at night, and attempts to gain unauthorised access to manholes and technical rooms. When the AI detects an anomaly, the system immediately sends an alert to security guards.
Electronic tags and RFID technology
Another innovative approach is the use of electronic tags to label cable products. Each reel or length of cable is fitted with a unique RFID chip containing encrypted information.
When criminals try to hand in stolen cable at a scrap metal collection point, the scanner immediately detects the tag. The system automatically checks whether this cable is listed in the database of stolen property, and alerts the police.
Geolocation monitoring
GPS trackers, either built into cable reels or positioned at strategic points along cable routes, enable the movement of equipment to be tracked in real time. If a cable reel suddenly leaves the authorised area, the security service receives an instant alert.
This technology is particularly useful for construction sites and remote energy infrastructure facilities.
Anti-theft equipment for various premises
Companies that have been operating in the security sector since 2008 offer comprehensive solutions to protect against theft. Anti-theft systems prevent goods from being taken out of retail outlets, supermarkets and shops without authorisation.
Although such systems were originally designed for the retail sector, their principles have been successfully adapted for the protection of cable depots and technical facilities belonging to energy companies.
| Technology | Advantages. | Areas of application |
|---|---|---|
| AI video surveillance | Real-time detection and recognition of suspicious activity | Transformer substations, cable lines, warehouses |
| RFID tags | Tracking cable origin, rapid identification of stolen items | Manufacturing, logistics, scrap metal collection points |
| GPS monitoring | Movement monitoring, instant alerts in the event of breaches | Construction sites, transport, remote sites |
| Disconnection detection systems | Automatic detection of unauthorised network interference | Electrical networks, distribution systems |
Legal aspects and liability
Cable theft is classified under Article 185 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. In 2020, the Supreme Court heard a case relating to theft involving unauthorised entry into premises and a storage facility.
Depending on the circumstances of the offence and the extent of the damage caused, the penalty can range from a fine to several years’ imprisonment. Indeed, for sixteen cable thefts in Kyiv, the offender was sentenced to three and a half years’ imprisonment.
The economic efficiency of innovations
Implementing anti-theft systems requires investment, but the payback period is usually within 1–2 years. For retail outlets, losses due to theft can account for a significant proportion of turnover.
Security companies with many years’ experience confirm that anti-theft systems provide highly effective protection for the goods and products held by a business.
For energy companies, the savings are even more significant. A single instance of cable theft from a main line can lead to power cuts lasting several hours in residential areas, emergency repair work and damage to the company’s reputation.
Practical guidance for energy companies
A comprehensive approach to protecting cable infrastructure comprises several levels:
- Technical aspects: installation of CCTV systems with AI analytics at critical sites, labelling of cables with electronic tags, and the use of sensors to detect disconnection and unauthorised access.
- Organisational level: regular inspections of the condition of cable lines, control of access to technical premises, cooperation with law enforcement agencies and scrap metal collection points.
- Information level: creation of a unified database of cable products with unique identifiers; exchange of information between energy companies regarding incidents of theft.
Charging infrastructure from ECOFACTOR – reliable solutions for electric vehicles in 2026
In 2026, the issue of equipment safety will be no less important than the development of the electric transport market. Alongside the issue of liability for cable theft, we are also discussing other matters – such as how to ensure that electric vehicle owners have consistent access to high-quality and secure infrastructure. This is precisely what we are working on at ECOFACTOR.
We are creating a charging infrastructure that makes it possible to use electric vehicles without any unnecessary complications across Ukraine. Our aim is not simply to install charging stations, but to build a comprehensive system in which every element has been carefully thought through: from the equipment to the digital services and support.
Various types of charging solutions for different needs
We develop and maintain charging stations for a range of usage scenarios. Our network includes AC solutions for homes and offices, as well as high-power DC stations for fast charging on motorways and in public places. Thanks to this, drivers can easily find a suitable location nearby and plan their journeys without any unnecessary worry.
We focus on both technical reliability and ease of use. ECOFACTOR’s charging infrastructure is designed to ensure that electric vehicles have consistent access to the service, regardless of region.
Mobile app for everyday use
For your convenience, we have developed a mobile app, available for iOS and Android. Using the app, users can view a map of charging stations, check the availability of charging points in real time, plan a route and pay for a charging session online.
The map of charging stations helps you find your way around quickly, whilst the digital payment system makes it easier to use the service. This is particularly useful for active journeys around town and between towns, when it’s important to find an available charging point quickly.
Equipment and accessories for the home and business
We are also developing our own online shop, which stocks chargers for a range of operating conditions. Here you can find solutions for both private homes and commercial premises.
In addition to stations, the catalogue features cables and adapters, as well as other accessories required for the safe and reliable operation of the equipment. We offer a comprehensive approach so that customers can find everything they need in one place.
A single ecosystem for convenient payments
We combine chargers, software, digital services and equipment into a single system. ECOFACTOR’s charging infrastructure is designed to make the charging process simple, straightforward and predictable.
Our aim is to provide electric vehicle owners with reliable solutions by 2026, where the infrastructure operates smoothly, the equipment meets modern standards, and using the services requires no unnecessary steps. We are creating an environment in which charging an electric vehicle becomes part of a familiar and comfortable everyday experience.
Conclusions.
Cable theft poses a serious threat to critical infrastructure, but modern, innovative solutions make it possible to effectively combat criminals. AI-powered CCTV, electronic tags, GPS monitoring and automated detection systems provide a multi-layered defence.
The data show that the most effective method of detecting breaches is regular security system checks, which detect 31 per cent of cases. This confirms the importance of a systematic approach and investment in preventive monitoring technologies.
Don’t wait until criminals cause damage to your company. Implement state-of-the-art security systems today — they usually pay for themselves within 1–2 years.
Frequently asked questions
What is the penalty for cable theft in Ukraine?
Cable theft is punishable under Article 185 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. The penalty depends on the circumstances of the offence and the extent of the damage — ranging from a fine to a custodial sentence. For example, for sixteen incidents of cable theft in Kyiv, a criminal was sentenced to three and a half years’ imprisonment.
How do AI video surveillance systems work to protect cable infrastructure?
AI cameras analyse video in real time and detect suspicious activity: people with tools near cable lines, vehicles near substations at night, and attempts at unauthorised access. When an anomaly is detected, the system instantly sends an alert to security guards, enabling them to prevent a crime.
Are electronic RFID tags effective in preventing theft?
Yes, RFID tags are very effective. Each cable reel is fitted with a unique chip containing encrypted information. When criminals hand in stolen cable at a scrap metal collection point, a scanner detects the tag and checks a database of stolen goods. This makes it much more difficult to sell the stolen goods.
How much does it cost to install a comprehensive anti-theft system?
The cost depends on the scale of the facility and the technologies chosen. A basic CCTV system for a small substation can cost from several tens of thousands of hryvnias, whilst a comprehensive solution for an extensive network costs considerably more. However, the investment usually pays for itself within 1–2 years thanks to reduced losses from theft.
Which properties are most often targeted by cable theft?
The most vulnerable areas are remote sections of the electricity grid, transformer substations without permanent security, building sites and the basements of residential buildings. Criminals target locations with lax security, where they can quickly cut the cable and remove it unnoticed.
How can energy companies work with the police to prevent theft?
Effective cooperation involves sharing information on thefts, creating centralised databases of stolen equipment, carrying out joint raids on scrap metal collection points, and coordinating with the security services. It is also important to promptly report all incidents to the police to ensure a rapid response.
Can innovation completely prevent cable theft?
It is impossible to completely eliminate theft, but modern technologies significantly reduce the number of incidents and make it easier to solve crimes. Research shows that many security experts are using innovative security measures. A comprehensive approach utilising AI, RFID and GPS acts as a powerful deterrent to potential criminals.