Think microblogging and you think Twitter. Since it was launched in March 2006, it has grown to become one of the post popular, not to mention powerful, social media platforms. With over 25 million users, it has become a strong network for people to share information. And in the current 'real-time craze,' it has become a chief source of getting the very latest information. Just try searching for something on Twitter and you can see results pouring in even before you have finished reading the first lot!

With all the information they share online, both personal and professional, Twitter profiles have come to reflect people's online personalities. However, with all the buzz on the internet security and threats, the latest being the Twitter Hack, it has become all the more important keep your account safe.

Here are some tips to stay safe on Twitter without anyhow compromising on your tweeting habits!

Think Before Sharing Personal Information
Unlike, Facebook people don't even need your consent to become part of your network. All they need is to follow you to see all that yo have tweeted (unless of course you have 'privatized' your tweets). Never share your personal email or business address, telephone numbers, etc. on Twitter unless you are absolutely sure about it. Also, before posting... think about the worst person you can think of who can see it. It might be your boss, your spouse, juniors, seniors anyone. And remember, anything you post can be read by absolutely anyone!

Change your Passwords Frequently
Hackers often use automated bots to gain access to your Twitter account. So, it is advisable to change your password every couple of months of so. Make sure your password is something hard to break. Include mixed characters of letters and numbers. You don't need to be paranoid about this but if you suspect any kind of phishing, then make sure you keep your self protected!

Review the Applications
As you try to integrate your presence on various social media platforms, you may often include Twitter feeds in there. This requires giving the applications access to your Twitter account. However, remember that quality applications would never ask for your Twitter username and password. A simple, grant access allowance is enough for them. Also, make sure you review the list of applications you have authorized via the Twitter Settings Connections page and remove the ones that you no longer need or use.

Expand the Short URLs
Bit.ly is so common on Twitter! However, though these short URLs serve to save the character limit, they are also used to hide unsafe web addresses. Therefore, make sure you check (or expand) the URL lest you land up somewhere you don't want to be. If you use Twitter clients like TweetDeck, make sure to turn on the “Show Preview Information for Short URLs” option. Firefox users can use extensions like LongURL Mobile Expander.

Maneet Puri is the Director of LeXolution IT Services, a professional web development company based in India that specializes in providing a range of web design services to its clients. The company also provides enhances SEO & SMO services.