The malicious movie files in question don't appear to be on esecially popular sites like the Pirate Bay, one researcher said.

The text messages sent to the widow, who is also a journalist, were laced with exploits that would have turned her phone into a multifaceted surveillance device.

Pegasus is sold by NSO Group, an Israeli digital arms dealer that provides governments with tools meant only to help combat terrorism and criminal activity. But a growing body of research provides evidence that Pegasus increasingly is used by repressive governments to stifle investigative journalism, anti-corruption watchdogs and forms of political dissent.

Over $15 million was stolen from Mexican banks this month by thieves who created fake money orders and phony accounts to withdraw funds from dozens of branches.