Regardless, I would definitely use a VM and make sure the network won't be compromised.
It's always a good idea to sandbox your wallets and mining software.
With Linux seperate users works well as long as you never run anything as root.
Download only from reliable sources, preferably directly from the developer.
Open source code is also a bonus for transparency. Wallets provided by the developers are usually open and give you the keys.
If not the coin is probably a scam and should be avoided
Web wallets offer convenience but often keep the keys. Remember: not your keys, not your wallet!
It will be difficult for a beginner to mine many coins, and I myself try to choose a few coins rather than try to mine all the coins that appear in announcements.
I second using a second computer for a new wallet.
also turn it offline most of the time.