Water theft refers to the illegal diversion or extraction of water from sources such as rivers, lakes, or municipal supplies. This practice can occur in both urban and rural areas, often leading to significant environmental and economic consequences. Water theft can strain local water resources, impacting agriculture, drinking water availability, and ecosystems. Governments and organizations are increasingly addressing water theft through stricter regulations and monitoring systems. Technologies like smart meters and satellite imagery are being used to detect unauthorized water use. Public awareness campaigns also aim to educate communities about the importance of conserving water and the negative effects of theft.