What is a common impact of spyware on a user's system?

Spyware is a type of malicious software designed to gather information about a person or organization without their consent. Its primary impact on a user's system is the ability to monitor online activities stealthily. This can include tracking browsing habits, capturing keystrokes, and collecting personal information such as login credentials and financial data.

As a result, users often remain unaware that their online activities are being surveilled, which poses significant privacy and security risks. Unlike legitimate software, spyware operates covertly, meaning users may not notice its presence or the extent of the data being collected until it’s too late.

The other options presented do not accurately reflect the nature of spyware. For example, increased speed or enhanced user experience would not be outcomes associated with spyware since it typically degrades system performance by consuming resources. Access to restricted websites is often a feature of certain proxies or VPNs, not spyware. While some spyware may utilize advertisements as a method of gaining revenue or data, it does so by compromising user privacy rather than enhancing the experience. Thus, monitoring online activities without user knowledge embodies the core function and threat of spyware.