A six-month examination by The New York Times reveals that several financial services companies have been targetting soldiers on US military bases, attempting to sell insurance policies and investments. The Times found that Insurance agents have made misleading pitches to “captive” audiences on bases and that they have posed as counselors on veterans benefits and independent financial advisers. And they have solicited soldiers in their barracks or while they were on duty in violation of Defense Department regulations.

The Times says the problem has intensified since the beginning of the Iraq war. With the death toll rising in Iraq, interest in insurance among the troops has surged, making the war a selling opportunity for many agents. To reach the buyers, many companies have used their military connections to lend credibility to their sales efforts. The advisory board at one company, First Command Financial Planning in Fort Worth, includes Gen. Anthony C. Zinni, the retired commander in chief of the United States Central Command.