When organizations talk about improving cybersecurity, the conversation often turns quickly to new tools, platforms, or services – and inevitably, how much it will cost. While shiny new technology absolutely plays a role, many of the most effective security improvements don’t require new software or additional budget.
In fact, some of the highest-impact cybersecurity improvements cost nothing at all — they simply require attention, discipline, and a little time.
Whether you're a small supplier, a mid-size manufacturer, or a global enterprise, the following steps can significantly improve your security posture without spending a dollar.
1. Turn on Multifactor Authentication Everywhere
If there’s one control that consistently stops real-world attacks, it’s multifactor authentication (MFA).
Many organizations already have MFA available in larger platforms like Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Salesforce, and VPN platforms — but, it’s not always fully enabled.
Make sure MFA is turned on for:
Even if credentials are stolen through phishing or a data breach, MFA can prevent attackers from accessing your systems.
2. Remove Unused Accounts and Old Access
Former employees or contractors, unused vendor accounts, and forgotten admin credentials are a common entry point for attackers.
Conduct a quick review of:
Reducing unnecessary accounts and access shrinks your attack surface immediately.
Pro Tip: Make access reviews a regular quarterly practice.
3. Require Strong, Unique Passwords
Password reuse remains one of the biggest causes of account compromise.
Encourage employees to:
Even if your organization already has password policies in place, reinforcing these habits can reduce credential-based attacks dramatically.
4. Make “Pause and Verify” Part of Your Culture
Many breaches don’t involve hacking tools — they involve tricking someone.
Phishing emails, fake invoices, and impersonation attacks are designed to create a fake sense of urgency. A simple behavioral habit can stop many of them:
Pause before acting on unexpected requests involving money, credentials, or sensitive data.
Encourage employees to verify requests by:
Building a culture where employees feel comfortable double-checking unusual requests can stop costly mistakes.
5. Lock Devices When Not in Use
It sounds basic, but unattended devices still create risk — especially in shared office spaces, production environments, or public meeting/event/travel spaces.
Encourage employees to:
This small habit prevents unauthorized access and accidental data exposure.
6. Update Systems When Updates Are Available
Most organizations already have software updates included in their systems, but they may delay applying them. Other organizations allow Bring-Your-Own-Device programs where personal devices can access work apps and content, but organizations have less control over applying patches and updates to personal unmanaged devices.
Cybercriminals often exploit known vulnerabilities that already have available patches.
Encourage teams to:
Keeping systems current on updates closes many common attack paths.
7. Talk About Cybersecurity Regularly
One of the most powerful — and free — security tool is awareness.
You don’t need a formal training program to start improving security culture. Simple actions can help:
When cybersecurity becomes part of everyday conversation, employees are more likely to notice and report potential threats.
Security Starts with the Basics
Sophisticated attacks make headlines, but many breaches still begin with simple weaknesses — an unprotected account, a reused password, or a phishing email that slips through and gets clicked on.
The good news is that strengthening these basics doesn’t require a large investment. It simply requires making cybersecurity part of everyday operations.
For PMMI members across the packaging and processing industry, these zero-dollar improvements can make a meaningful difference today— and help ensure that future technology investments build on a strong security foundation.
