### Comment:
How does ransomware work and what are its potential impacts?

### REPLY:
Ransomware is a malicious software that encrypts files on a victim's computer or network and demands a ransom in exchange for the decryption key. The impacts of ransomware can be devastating, as it can lead to significant financial losses for individuals and organizations. In some cases, sensitive information such as customer data or trade secrets can be stolen and used for blackmail or further exploitation. Victims who refuse to pay the ransom may face permanent loss of their data.