OT: Need to convert 170 ms word files to LOCKED DOWN FORMS

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Ok, I've been approached again by my dad's client. They have 170 MS Word Form files that they want to e-mail, have the client fill them out, print, sign (need legal signature) & mail/fax/hand deliver. Obviously, they can already do this w/ the word form. However, they want the form part of the file LOCKED so no one can edit this information (insurance forms so they don't want anyone changing the fine print, etc.). I created a LOCKED PDF form which you can e-mail the form data and when you open up the form data it will "re-link" itself to the correct PDF so you don't have to refill it out... The problem is that most of their clients don't understand this concept and end up loosing their data.

So, is there an easy way to lock the form data in the MS Word file (needing a password to change this data) but still allowing the customer to fill out the form in MS Word and Saving the form w/ their data filled out.... NOT TOUCHING THE FINE PRINT...

If not, is there any 3rd party applications that would accomplish this? They are an insurance firm so this would have to be an Windows Applications.

Thanks for any advice...

Bill