Hypotheticly if instead of searching for my old ps 2 discs i downloaded a rom could the emulated games infect my computer once ran? this question isn’t ps2 specific.
As long as the “ROM” isn’t actually an executable file (such as a .exe), you should be safe. Some shady websites will tell you that you’re downloading a ROM, but are really downloading a malware installer, so you have to watch out. But as long as you’re downloading an actual ROM file (the type of file is different for each console, but Google says that most PS2 ROMs should be a .ISO file), you’re probably fine.
Disclaimer: there is always a risk when pirating files. Make sure you use an ad blocker and don’t accidentally click on any fake download links.
Some shady websites will tell you that you’re downloading a ROM, but are really downloading a malware installer
i think most emulators only allow to run platform correct file extensions.
Hypothetically, yes. Emulators aren’t really built with security in mind. Practically, I haven’t heard of many people targeting vulnerabilities in emulators as an attack vector. You’re probably fine!
I think if i use a non-admin account, and firejail to sandbox the apps i should be fine.
If you’re concerned, try comparing them to known hashes. If there’s a mismatch, you could have something sketchy.
Also be careful with archives (.zip, .rar).
Some emulators are/were able to be exploited, so modified ROMs/ISOs/etc. could look like a legit game, but have actually been injected with a virus.