The way we use apps has changed dramatically in the last decade. From paying bills and booking flights to managing healthcare and even controlling cars, mobile apps are now the backbone of our digital lives. With so much sensitive data being exchanged, one question looms large for every business leader: Are your apps truly secure?
This is where Gartner’s Hype Cycle for Application Security 2025 comes in. It’s more than just a report — it’s a roadmap that helps organizations understand which security technologies are worth investing in and when. And one area Gartner places a spotlight on this year is application shielding.
The Gartner Hype Cycle: A Compass for Security Leaders
For years, Gartner’s Hype Cycle has guided businesses through the noise of emerging technologies. It maps innovations from their first spark of excitement to the point where they deliver real, measurable value.
When it comes to application security, the 2025 report makes something very clear: application shielding has moved past the “nice to have” stage. It’s entering mainstream adoption, with Gartner estimating 20–50% penetration across industries. That’s a strong signal that organizations worldwide are recognizing its importance.
So, why the surge?
Why Application Shielding Can’t Be Ignored
Think about the sheer volume of personal and financial data that flows through mobile apps every day. Without proper safeguards, attackers don’t just target back-end systems anymore — they go straight for the apps in users’ hands.
According to Gartner, shielding plays a vital role in:
Protecting sensitive data:
Whether it’s healthcare records, payment details, or identity information, shielding ensures data isn’t left vulnerable to theft.
Resisting advanced attacks:
Modern hackers exploit accessibility services, emulators, and even malware-assisted remote access. Shielding makes these tactics far less effective.
Serving high-risk industries:
Banking, healthcare, retail, insurance, entertainment, and gaming are leading adopters — because the stakes are simply too high to ignore.
Balancing compliance and experience:
Shielding helps businesses stay compliant with data protection regulations without creating frustrating barriers for users.
In short, app shielding provides a safety net in an increasingly hostile digital environment.
DoveRunner’s Role in Raising the Bar
It’s no surprise that DoveRunner has been recognized by Gartner as a Sample Vendor in this year’s Hype Cycle. The company has built its reputation on making app security seamless and effective.
Here’s how DoveRunner delivers value:
Stronger defenses from the inside out
Using code obfuscation and white-box cryptography, DoveRunner ensures apps are resilient against cloning, reverse engineering, and unauthorized data access.
Real-time threat detection
Their shielding technology blocks rooting, debugging, and emulation attempts the moment they occur — shutting down attacks before they cause damage.
Proactive fraud prevention
By spotting suspicious behaviors like accessibility abuse or device takeover attempts, DoveRunner helps businesses stop fraud in its tracks.
Future-proofing security
Cyberthreats don’t stand still — and neither does DoveRunner. Their constant updates and research-backed approach make sure protections evolve as fast as the threats do.
Final Thoughts
If there’s one takeaway from Gartner’s Hype Cycle for Application Security 2025, it’s this: application shielding is no longer optional. It’s becoming a standard layer of defense for organizations that want to protect data, prevent fraud, and maintain customer trust.
DoveRunner’s recognition in the report underscores the value it brings to businesses looking for reliable, cost-effective, and agile mobile app protection.
The question isn’t if you should shield your apps — it’s when. And the time, according to Gartner’s findings, is now.Ready to take the next step? Discover how DoveRunner can help you shield your apps from fraud, reverse engineering, and compliance risks.
