Once your devices are connected to internet, it becomes impossible to stop viruses infection, hacking or malware attack.
From experience, the following would prevent your laptop from attack:
1: Install an anti-virus software… seriously recommended
2: Make sure your system is current with updates, updates fixes security holes.
3: Always use a normal user account. Only use an account that have admin privilege when you need to install or make changes to the systems settings.
If possible disconnect from the internet when using an admin privilege account.
4: Common sense. Do not click on dodgy links.
However, I would advise people to have two laptops one
For doing work stuff and browsing secure websites like your bank, news, and academics websites.