Due to the system architecture of iOS/iPadOS, unless jailbroken (don’t go there!), your iPad is not susceptible to traditional malware infection per-se. However, as with all computer systems, there are still vulnerabilities and exploits to which you remain vulnerable.
Be wary of the myth that Apple devices are immune to malware; those that perpetuate this untruth do not fully comprehend the broader threat landscape. Consider that if the myth (and over-generalisation) were true, Apple would not need to expend considerable resources in developing and issuing regular security updates and patches for their products.
While your iPad is unlikely to be directly infected by malware, it is still possible to easily download an “infected” file to the iPad - which if transferred elsewhere still has the capacity to infect other computer systems with malware. As such, as executable code for iPad is only available from the App Store, it makes no sense to attempt to download these materials from other sources.
If you know the code cannot run under iOS/iPadOS, why take the risk of exposing your device to code which might exploit an un-patched vulnerability? This is called avoidable risk.
Should you wish to add a degree of useful protection to your iPad, whilst acknowledging that there are no bona-fide anti-virus products for iOS/iPadOS, there are a small number of Apps which do add useful defences. Browser and network-based attacks can largely be mitigated by installing a good, Content and Ad-blocking product. One of the very best and most respected within the Apple App Store - designed for iPad, iPhone and Mac - is 1Blocker for Safari.
https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/1blocker-for-safari/id1365531024
1Blocker is highly configurable - and crucially does not rely upon an external proxy-service of dubious provenance. All processing takes place on your device - and contrary to expectations, Safari will run faster and more efficiently.
Unwanted content is not simply filtered after download (a technique used by basic/inferior products), but instead undesirable embedded content blocked form download. A further benefit on metered services, such as cellular connections where you data may be capped or chargeable, this not only improves speed but also saves you money.
1Blocker has also introduced its new “Firewall” functions - that are explicitly designed to block “trackers”. Being implemented at the network-layer, this additional protection works across all Apps.
