The U.S. Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 made it illegal to hunt or harass any marine mammal in U.S. waters. In Canada, Norway, and the United Kingdom, it is legal to shoot harbor seals to protect fisheries or fish farms. Many fish species eaten by harbor seals are also commercially fished, and the seals often become entangled and drown in fishing nets and gear.

US Federal List: no special status

CITES: no special status

IUCN Red List of Threatened Species: least concern