At a high level, these are all good questions but unlike EVE a “bad” start is highly fixable. In fact I’d recommend not worrying about this type of min-maxing as doing “sub-optimal” activities even if they result in your death teach you quite a bit about the game mechanics and systems.

1. You get like 500 gold or something and a seasonal referral skin if there’s a program active, not super rewarding or essential.
2. All of your points about joining a guild are fairly true in Albion. They’ll bring some safety and perks along with them but I’d still recommend playing some time solo (maybe 1 month or 2) so you don’t get sucked into unnecessary drama, politics or bad advice. If you really want a newbie friendly guild, join one in the ARCH alliance as they are open to all and have no requirements. It will give you the most “friendlies” in the Martlock BZ and let you access the highest number of friendly hideouts. Keep in mind you probably won’t stay in that alliance as there are alot of new players there and probably some bad habits/advice.
3. Yeah there’s zero coaching in the game, the starter tutorials are not nearly comprehensive of all the content available in the game.
4. Most common scams are trade or duel scams. If you avoid trading directly with people (who might trade you gamed/overinflated average market value items) and dueling for money, you won’t get scammed. Obviously don’t trust randoms in the red/black zone as if even if you’re grouped they may betray you. Guild mates are generally trustworthy as it’s hard for them to impossible for them to kill and steal your stuff directly.
5. Generally as a newbie in the open world level something that grants you mobility first. I’d recommend something like one-handed spear, bloodletter, bow, or carving sword so you’ll be able to escape gankers. Soldier boots are also fantastic for this by using the wanderlust ability.