Im very paranoid about getting into piracy and im not sure if i should or it or not but there are so many things i want that i cant afford.
is there a secure linux os that i can use without a vpn? im pretty use to windows 10 but i was told linux mint is good for this kind of stuff, is that true?
Literally stop being paranoid and do it. Prosecuting individuals for reproducing copyrighted material is almost never enforced unless you’re directly angering the copyright holder.
“security” in /Linux distributions is using up-to-date software and having common sense OPSEC. I suggest you read up on the computer science of torrenting first and then pick your preferred libre bittorrent client with a VPN.
Sorry if I sound a bit standoffish but you have to rid yourself of the idea that there exists a “secure linux os.” The only increased security with libre software is your own knowledge and know how.