Security on New Cards

Has anyone else noticed the security on new bank and credit cards seems to be getting a bit lax from certain banks. Those we have received recently from Barclays we have had to activate. However, the last two from Nat West, MasterCard and debit card have come ready for action. As they both have contactless capability this seem rather lax. Perhaps you have to put your pin in before it will let you use it contactless, although it does not say this in the accompanying info. Either way I was happier when I had to phone or go on line to activate. Just wondered if other providers were doing the same?