Newbie advice. Where to start learning cryptocurrency and how not to become a victim of scam?

Hi all.

I am 21 years old and have never been interested in cryptocurrencies. Almost all my friends talk about it, but I never paid attention to it. Tell me now is it too late for me to start understanding this topic or not?

I would be interested to hear advice on books, where you can learn more about what it is.

And where you can safely store and buy crypto.

I know that this information is on the Internet, but there are mostly promotional articles, so I do not trust them.

Thanks in advance.