Why some unwarded bounty files are unlocked and others not?

Some bounty entries have all or almost all their files unlocked despite the bounty not being awarderd. Some other unawarded bounties have all their entry files locked.

In discussion for this bounty you can find possible answer: https://civitai.com/bounties/166/highest-reacted-image-for-the-win

Looks plausible.

I think it depends on how and where you post it. The images and files posted to Bounty Files part of the upload form are automatically locked for everyone. Images and files posted to Example Images or Sample Files are unrestricted and accessible to everyone. Guess those who have entry files unlocked posted them in the wrong part of the form.