Methods and systems for protecting data that is intended for use and processed on video or graphics cards are described. In one embodiment, a video card comprises a graphics processor unit (GPU) for processing data that is to be rendered on a monitor. The GPU comprises encryption and decryption functionality sufficient to encrypt and decrypt data on the video card. Memory is operably associated with the GPU for holding data that is to be or has been processed by the GPU. The memory comprises protected and unprotected portions. A display converter is provided for converting digital data to analog signals for use in rendering the data on the monitor. A memory controller is configured to protect the protected portions of the video memory.