Most malware is made for Windows, so you have less of a chance of experiencing a virus on your device. However, this doesn’t exempt you from all risks. It’s always smart to take extra precautions on Linux to secure your data at all times.
The best ways to protect yourself while torrenting on Linux are to 1) only download trustworthy torrents and 2) use a reputable VPN. Those two things paired with the assurance of Linux’s open-source software will help in your online safety and overall experience.