Techniques for providing a data confidence index are presented herein. In one embodiment, a method includes setting a default confidence index for a remote computing device, the confidence index indicating trustworthiness of data provided by the remote computing device, the remote computing device operating as part of a network of cooperating devices; applying a plurality of ordered rules for the remote computing device, respective rules comprising a rule pre-condition and a confidence index adjustment, respective rules considering one of a behavior of the remote computing device and a property of the remote computing device; and adjusting the confidence index for the remote computing device responsive to results of applying the plurality of ordered rules. A system and apparatus substantially perform steps of the disclosed method.