Can't download apps onto MacBook Air

Hi there -

I recently bought a refurbished 2019 MacBook Air and I'm trying to download Chrome and other applications but it won't work - it tells me to drag the download into applications, but when I do and try to double-click to open, it just tells me again to drag it into applications.

Any one had this before and know how to help? I think it might be my permissions but can't see how to fix that...

Thanks!